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parlieren

to converse fluently, to chat in a foreign language

verb par-LEE-ren Rare
Communication Speech

Origin: from French 'parler' (to speak)

Usage Note

parlieren has a slightly elevated, old-fashioned flavour suggesting easy, pleasant conversation, often in a foreign language: 'auf Französisch parlieren'. Today it can be used with mild irony about someone who speaks glibly or shows off their language skills.

Examples

"Die Gäste parlierten mühelos auf Englisch und Französisch miteinander."

Natural Translation

The guests conversed effortlessly in English and French with each other.

Literal Translation

The guests conversed effortlessly in English and French with-each-other.

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